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Home > Drug Category > Osteoporosis Medications > Hyalgan and Equivalent

Hyalgan Information

Hyalgan (sodium hyaluronate) is based on a class of products known as hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, or hyaluronans. Hyalgan is used for the treatment of pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee in patients who do not get adequate relief from simple painkillers or from exercise and physical therapy. Hyalgan is administered by your health care provider as an intra-articular injection into the knee joint. The precise mechanism by which Hyalgan works is unknown. The fluid (synovial fluid) in your knee helps to lubricate and cushion the joint during movement. The major component in the synovial fluid is hyaluronic acid. One of the early effects of osteoarthritis is the breakdown of this fluid, making it less effective. It is thought that Hyalgan injection helps restore the synovial fluid back to a more healthy state, thereby reducing the pain. Hyalgan is available as 20 mg/2 ml per syringe.

Hyalgan Side Effects

The most common side effect of Hyalgan may include localized discomfort after treatment (because Hyalgan is injected directly into the joint); transient pain, swelling, and effusion in and around the knee; stomach pain, nausea; difficulty walking; back pain, joint pain, muscle pain; numbness or tingly feeling; headache, dizziness; runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects such as:
• Fever;
• Fast or pounding heartbeat;
• Severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection;
• Severe headache;
• Signs of an allergic reaction.

Hyalgan Precautions

Do not use Hyalgan if you are allergic to intra-articular hyaluronic acid preparations or are allergic to avian proteins, feathers, and egg products or to any other ingredients in this medication. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee; if you have ever had blood clots or circulation problems in your legs; or an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products; are pregnant or are breast feeding. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Hyalgan and other medications. It is recommended that you avoid strenuous activities such as jogging, tennis, and heavy lifting or standing on your feet for a long time for at least 48 hours after receiving an injection. Hyalgan is not approved for use by anyone younger than 21 years old.

Do I need a prescription to order Hyalgan?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Hyalgan.